Wireless fuel sensor system

ABSTRACT

A method for generating sensor data is presented. A number of wireless power signals is sent to a group of sensor units. A number of wireless data collection signals is sent to the group of sensor units after the number of wireless power signals have been sent to the group of sensor units. Sensor data in a number of wireless response signals is received from the group of sensor units.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1. Field

The present disclosure relates generally to aircraft and, in particular,to sensor systems in aircraft. Still more particularly, the presentdisclosure relates to a method and apparatus for a wireless sensorsystem for measuring fuel quantity in a fuel tank of an aircraft.

2. Background

In operating an aircraft, various types of information about theaircraft and the environment around the aircraft is identified. Thisinformation may include, for example, airspeed, cabin temperature,temperature outside of the aircraft, humidity, air pressure, fuel level,engine temperature, the configuration of control surfaces, and othersuitable types of information. This information may be identified usingsensor systems in the aircraft.

Currently, sensors are often connected to other equipment through wiresand cables. For example, wires may be located in the wing of anaircraft. These wires may extend from portions of the sensor systemlocated in the fuselage of the aircraft to sensors in fuel tanks orother locations in the wing of the aircraft. Additionally, otherequipment also may be located in the fuel tank or wing to facilitatemaking measurements and generating sensor data.

In manufacturing aircraft, routing wires may take longer than desired toinstall sensors in the fuel tank. Additionally, use of wires and otherequipment associated with the wires also may add additional weight tothe aircraft. For example, additional structures may be needed toprovide for a desired routing and separation of wires to reduce arcingor discharge that may occur from environmental effects. Theseenvironmental effects may include electromagnetic events such aslightning or static electricity.

Further, the use of wires also may result in the forming of openings inthe fuel tank to route the wires to sensors in the fuel tank. Theformation and location of these openings may take more time and expensethan desired during the installation of the sensors in the fuel tank ofthe aircraft. As a result, the increased time and expense involved ininstalling these components may increase the manufacturing time for theaircraft more than desired. Additionally, the cost of the aircraft alsomay be greater than desired.

Further, the wires and number of openings for the wires may also resultin more maintenance than desired while the aircraft is in use. Forexample, additional inspections may be performed on the seals for theopenings and the integrity of the wires. Also, wires and seals mayrequire replacement at times during the life of the aircraft.Consequently, the time and cost of maintenance also may be greater thandesired.

Therefore, it would be desirable to have a method and apparatus thattake into account at least some of the issues discussed above, as wellas other possible issues.

SUMMARY

In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises a sensorcollector configured to send a number of wireless power signals to agroup of sensor units. The sensor controller is further configured tosend a number of wireless data collection signals to the group of sensorunits after the number of wireless power signals have been sent to thegroup of sensor units. The sensor collector is still further configuredto receive sensor data in a number of wireless response signals from thegroup of sensor units.

In another illustrative embodiment, an aircraft fuel sensor systemcomprises a group of sensor units, a wireless system, and a sensorcontroller. The group of sensor units is located in a fuel tank of anaircraft. The wireless system is configured to send a number of wirelesspower signals and a number of wireless data collection signals to thegroup of sensor units under a control of the sensor controller andreceive sensor data in a number of wireless response signals sent fromthe group of sensor units. The sensor controller is configured to causethe wireless system to send the number of wireless power signals to thegroup of sensor units. The sensor controller is further configured tocause the wireless system to send the number of wireless data collectionsignals to the group of sensor units after the number of wireless powersignals have been sent to the group of sensor units. The sensorcontroller is still further configured to receive sensor datatransmitted wirelessly in the number of wireless response signals fromthe wireless system.

In yet another illustrative embodiment, a sensor system comprises asensor, an antenna system, an energy harvesting device, and acontroller. The antenna system is physically connected to the sensor.The antenna system is configured to send and receive wireless signals.The energy harvesting device is configured to derive energy from thewireless signals received. The controller is configured to control thesensor to make a measurement, save the measurement as sensor data, andsend the sensor data in the wireless signals.

In another illustrative embodiment, a method for generating sensor datais presented. A number of wireless power signals is sent to a group ofsensor units. A number of wireless data collection signals is sent tothe group of sensor units after the number of wireless power signalshave been sent to the group of sensor units. The sensor data in a numberof wireless response signals is received from the group of sensor units.

In still another illustrative embodiment, a method for generating sensordata is presented. A number of wireless power signals are received at asensor unit. A number of measurements is made using a sensor at thesensor unit after receiving the number of wireless power signals. Thenumber of measurements is stored as the sensor data. The sensor data istransmitted in a number of wireless sensor data signals when a number ofwireless data collection signals are received.

The features and functions can be achieved independently in variousembodiments of the present disclosure or may be combined in yet otherembodiments in which further details can be seen with reference to thefollowing description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrativeembodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrativeembodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, furtherobjectives and features thereof, will best be understood by reference tothe following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment of thepresent disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an aircraft in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a block diagram of a monitoring environmentin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a block diagram of a wireless system inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a block diagram of a sensor unit inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of states for a sensor system used to generatesensor data in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a sensor system in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7 is another illustration of a sensor system in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8 is another illustration of a sensor system in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9 is yet another illustration of a sensor system in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a timing diagram in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a block diagram of a sensor unit inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a block diagram of an electric circuit inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 13 is another illustration of a block diagram of an electriccircuit in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a sensor unit in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 15 is another illustration of a sensor unit in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 16 is another illustration of a sensor unit in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 17 is yet another illustration of a sensor unit in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 18 is yet another illustration of a sensor unit in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 19 is still another illustration of a sensor unit in accordancewith an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for generatingsensor data in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for sendingwireless data collection signals in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment;

FIG. 22 is an illustration of a block diagram of a data processingsystem in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 23 is an illustration of an aircraft manufacturing and servicemethod in the form of a block diagram in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment; and

FIG. 24 is an illustration of an aircraft in the form of a block diagramin which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that theuse of wireless sensors may be employed to reduce issues that arise fromthe use of wires in an aircraft, such as those that may extend through awing to fuel tanks and aircraft. For example, by reducing or eliminatingthe use of wires for sensors in fuel tanks, the weight may be reduced inan aircraft to increase the performance of the aircraft. For example, anincrease in range, maneuverability, and other types of performance forthe aircraft may occur. Further, the amount of time needed to installsensors in fuel tanks for an aircraft also may be reduced.

The illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account thatcurrently, wireless sensors used in fuel tanks may take the form ofcapacitive probes. A capacitive probe may measure the level of fuel in afuel tank.

The illustrative embodiments provide a method and apparatus forgenerating sensor data. For example, an apparatus may include a sensorcontroller. The sensor controller is configured to send a number ofwireless power signals to a group of sensor units. The wirelesscontroller is configured to send a number of wireless data collectionsignals to the group of sensor units after the number of wireless powersignals have been sent the group of sensor units. The sensor controlleris also configured to receive sensor data transmitted wirelessly in anumber of wireless response signals from the group of sensor units.

With reference now to the figures, and in particular, with reference toFIG. 1, an illustration of an aircraft is depicted in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, aircraft 100 haswing 102 and wing 104 attached to body 106. Aircraft 100 includes engine108 attached to wing 102 and engine 110 attached to wing 104.

Body 106 has nose section 112 and tail section 114. Horizontalstabilizer 116, horizontal stabilizer 118, and vertical stabilizer 120are attached to tail section 114 of body 106.

Aircraft 100 is an example of an aircraft in which a sensor system maybe implemented in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, a sensor system may be implemented in aircraft 100to monitor at least one of aircraft 100 or the environment aroundaircraft 100.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of,” when used with a list ofitems, means different combinations of one or more of the listed itemsmay be used and only one of each item in the list may be needed. Forexample, “at least one of item A, item B, or item C” may include,without limitation, item A, item A and item B, or item B. This examplealso may include item A, item B, and item C or item B and item C. Ofcourse, any combinations of these items may be present. In otherexamples, “at least one of” may be, for example, without limitation, twoof item A, one of item B, and ten of item C; four of item B and seven ofitem C; and other suitable combinations. The item may be a particularobject, thing, or a category. In other words, at least one of means anycombination of items and number of items may be used from the list butnot all of the items in the list are required.

In this illustrative example, fuel tank 124 and fuel tank 126 areexamples of parts of aircraft 100 that may be monitored by the sensorsystem. In particular, the sensor system may monitor the fuel level aswell as other information about fuel tank 124 and fuel tank 126. In thismanner, the sensor system may be an aircraft fuel sensor system in thisillustrative example.

Turning now to FIG. 2, an illustration of a block diagram of amonitoring environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. In this illustrative example, monitoring environment 200includes sensor system 202 that is configured to generate sensor data204 about aircraft 206. Aircraft 100 in FIG. 1 is an example of onemanner in which aircraft 206 shown in block form may be implemented.

As depicted, sensor system 202 is physically associated with aircraft206. When one component is “physically associated” with anothercomponent, the association is a physical association in the depictedexamples. For example, a first component, such as sensor system 202, maybe considered to be physically associated with a second component, suchas aircraft 206, by being secured to the second component, bonded to thesecond component, mounted to the second component, welded to the secondcomponent, fastened to the second component, and/or connected to thesecond component in some other suitable manner. The first component alsomay be connected to the second component using a third component. Thefirst component may also be considered to be physically associated withthe second component by being formed as part of the second component,extension of the second component, or both.

In the illustrative example, sensor system 202 includes a number ofcomponents used to generate sensor data 204. As depicted, sensor system202 includes sensor controller 208, wireless system 210, and sensorunits 212.

Sensor controller 208 is configured to control the generation of sensordata 204 by sensor units 212. As depicted, sensor controller 208 may beimplemented in software, hardware, firmware or a combination thereof.When software is used, the operations performed by sensor controller 208may be implemented in program code configured to run on a processorunit. When firmware is used, the operations performed by sensorcontroller 208 may be implemented in program code and data and stored inpersistent memory to run on a processor unit. When hardware is employed,the hardware may include circuits that operate to perform the operationsin sensor controller 208.

In the illustrative examples, the hardware may take the form of acircuit system, an integrated circuit, an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device, or some othersuitable type of hardware configured to perform a number of operations.With a programmable logic device, the device may be configured toperform the number of operations. The device may be reconfigured at alater time or may be permanently configured to perform the number ofoperations. Examples of programmable logic devices include, for example,a programmable logic array, a programmable array logic, a fieldprogrammable logic array, a field programmable gate array, and othersuitable hardware devices. Additionally, the processes may beimplemented in organic components integrated with inorganic componentsand/or may be comprised entirely of organic components excluding a humanbeing. For example, the processes may be implemented as circuits inorganic semiconductors.

Wireless system 210 is a hardware system and configured to facilitatethe transmission of wireless signals 214. In the illustrative examples,wireless signals 214 are described with respect to radio frequencysignals. Of course, wireless signals 214 may take other forms inaddition to or in place or radio frequency signals. For example,wireless signals 214 may be at least one of radio frequency signals,optical signals, infrared signals, or other suitable types of wirelesssignals.

Wireless system 210 may have a suitable architecture or arrangement. Forexample, wireless system 210 may be a wireless network.

As depicted, wireless system 210 is configured to transmit a number ofwireless power signals 216 and a number of wireless data collectionsignals 218 to the group of sensor units 212 under a control of sensorcontroller 208 and receive sensor data 204 transmitted wirelessly fromthe group of sensor units 212 in a number of wireless response signals220. These signals are only examples of wireless signals 214 and notmeant to be exhaustive examples of wireless signals 214.

As used herein, a “number of,” when used with reference to items, meansone or more items. For example, a number of wireless power signals 216is one or more wireless power signals in wireless power signals 216. Ina similar fashion, a “group,” when used with reference to items, alsomeans one or more items.

As depicted, sensor units 212 are in locations 222 in or on aircraft206. In one illustrative and non-limiting example, the group of sensorunits 212 may be located in fuel tank 224 in locations 222.

In the illustrative example, the group of sensor units 212 derivesenergy to operate from the number of wireless power signals 216. Inother words, the number of wireless power signals 216 provides power bytransferring energy to the group of sensor units 212 in a wirelessfashion. In the illustrative example, the number of wireless powersignals 216 may be unmodulated. In other words, information, such ascommands or data, is not included within wireless power signals 216.

As depicted, one wireless power signal in the number of wireless powersignals 216 may be sufficient to provide energy to the group of sensorunits 212. In particular, the energy is electrical energy.

In some examples, one or more additional wireless power signals in thenumber of wireless power signals 216 may be used to provide power forone or more of sensor units 212 in the group of sensor units 212. Inthis case, the use of multiple wireless power signals may be in the formof plurality of sequential wireless power signals in the number ofwireless power signals 216. The use of multiple wireless signals may bereferred to as a trickle charging process for the group of sensor units212. With the use of multiple wireless power signals, the signals may besent at lower levels and may shorten in duration.

Further, in some cases, one sensor unit in the group of sensor units 212may be powered using a single wireless power signal in the number ofwireless power signals 216, while another sensor unit in the group ofsensor units 212 may be powered using multiple wireless signals in thenumber of wireless power signals 216. In other words, the transmissionof wireless power signals 216 may be mixed within the group of sensorunits 212.

The energy derived from the number of wireless power signals 216 may beused by the group of sensor units 212 to perform one or more operations.For example, when the group of sensor units 212 receives the number ofwireless power signals 216, the group of sensor units 212 makesmeasurements and stores the measurements as sensor data 204.

The group of sensor units 212 sends sensor data 204 to sensor controller208 through wireless system 210 when the group of sensor units 212receives the number of wireless data collection signals 218 fromwireless system 210. As depicted, the number of wireless data collectionsignals 218 may be modulated to include information. This informationmay provide commands, data, and other information needed to collectsensor data 204 from sensor units 212. As depicted, sensor data 204 issent in the number of wireless response signals 220 to sensor controller208 through wireless system 210.

Sensor controller 208 processes sensor data 204. Sensor controller 208may perform operations including at least one of filtering, analysis,sending sensor data 204 to a computer in aircraft 206, generating analert, storing sensor data 204 in a database, sending sensor data 204 toa location remote to aircraft 206, displaying sensor data 204, or othersuitable operations.

In these illustrative examples, sensor system 202 may be configured tomeet a policy. The policy is one or more rules. The policy may be, forexample, a safety policy regarding operations in aircraft 206. Thesafety policy may include rules with respect to the construction ofcomponents, the operation of components, and other suitable rules. Inone illustrative example, the safety policy may be directed towards thearchitecture of sensor system 202 and may be a standard defining safetycertification requirements. The different components in sensor system202 may be configured to meet this type of standard or other standards.

Turning next to FIG. 3, an illustration of a block diagram of a wirelesssystem is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Anexample of an implementation for wireless system 210 is shown in thisfigure. As depicted, wireless system 210 includes transceiver system300, a group of antennas 302, and router system 304.

In the illustrative example, transceiver system 300 is a hardware systemthat may include software. As depicted, transceiver system 300 comprisesa group of transceiver units 306. A transceiver unit is configured totransmit wireless signals 214 in FIG. 2 through the group of antennas302 and receive wireless signals 214 through the group of antennas 302.In some examples, a separate transmitter and receiver may be used toimplement a transceiver unit.

The group of antennas 302 is physically associated with transceiversystem 300. For example, the group of antennas 302 may be connected tothe housing of a structure in which transceiver units 306 are located.In other illustrative examples, one or more of antennas 302 in the groupof antennas 302 may be connected to transceiver units 306 by wires. Inother words, the group of antennas 302 does not have to be in the samelocation or locations as transceiver units 306 in different illustrativeexamples.

As depicted, router system 304 may be comprised of a group of routers308. In the illustrative examples, a router in the group of routers 308is configured to send information to sensor controller 208 in FIG. 2.The group of routers 308 may provide routing functions similar to thatof routers used in computer networks. Further, if sensor controller 208is distributed in different locations or one or more additional sensorcontrollers are present, the group of routers 308 may route sensor data204 in FIG. 2 to an appropriate location based on at least one of anaddressing scheme, a group of rules, or some other scheme.

Further, the group of routers 308 also may process sensor data 204received from sensor units 212 in FIG. 2. For example, the group ofrouters 308 may aggregate sensor data 204 from the group of sensor units212. The group of routers 308 also may place sensor data 204 into aformat for use by sensor controller 208. In still other illustrativeexamples, the group of routers 308 may filter, sample, or otherwiseprocess sensor data 204.

With reference now to FIG. 4, an illustration of a block diagram of asensor unit is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.Sensor unit 400 is a hardware device and is an example of a sensor unitin sensor units 212 in FIG. 2. In this illustrative example, sensor unit400 includes housing 402, antenna system 404, sensor system 406, andcontroller 408.

Housing 402 is a structure that is physically associated with the othercomponents. In particular, housing 402 may provide support for the othercomponents.

Antenna system 404 is a hardware system and is configured to send andreceive signals such as wireless signals 214 in FIG. 2. Antenna system404 is comprised of one or more antennas. Antenna system 404 may bemounted on housing 402 in the illustrative examples. In otherillustrative examples, some or all of antenna system 404 may be locatedwithin housing 402.

Sensor system 406 is a hardware system. As depicted, sensor system 406includes one or more sensors. In particular, sensor system 406 mayinclude capacitive probe 410. Capacitive probe 410 is configured tomeasure fluid levels. For example, capacitive probe 410 may be used tomeasure a level of fuel in a fuel tank.

Controller 408 is a hardware device configured to control the operationof sensor system 406. As depicted, controller 408 receives energythrough a wireless signal received on antenna system 404. In theseillustrative examples, controller 408 may include a receiver and atransmitter in addition to logic circuits for controlling the operationof sensor system 406.

As depicted, controller 408 is configured to cause sensor system 406 tomake measurements that result in the generation of sensor data 412. Forexample, controller 408 may send energy to sensor system 406 that causessensor system 406 to make measurements and generate sensor data 412. Inthe illustrative example, sensor data 412 is an example of sensor data204 in FIG. 2.

In this illustrative example, controller 408 may receive sensor data 412and store sensor data 412 in memory 414. Additionally, controller 408also may transmit sensor data over a wireless signal through antennasystem 404.

Turning now to FIG. 5, an illustration of states for a sensor systemused to generate sensor data is depicted in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. In this illustrative example, state machine 500includes states that may be implemented in sensor system 202 in FIG. 2.These states may be used to generate sensor data 204 in FIG. 2 in adesired manner.

In this illustrative example, state machine 500 has a number ofdifferent states. As depicted, state machine 500 includes idle state502, power state 504, and data collection state 506.

In this illustrative example, state machine 500 begins in idle state502. Event 508 causes state machine 500 to shift from idle state 502 topower state 504. Event 508 may take various forms. As depicted, event508 may be a periodic event or a non-periodic event. For example, event508 may be the expiration of a timer, the receipt of a user input, achange in a selected parameter, or some other suitable event.

In power state 504, sensor controller 208 sends a group of wirelesspower signals 216 using wireless system 210 as shown in block form inFIG. 2. The group of wireless power signals 216 has a power levelconfigured to provide a desired level of energy transfer to a group ofsensor units 212.

After the transmission of the group of wireless power signals 216, statemachine 500 shifts from power state 504 to data collection state 506. Indata collection state 506, sensor controller 208 sends a group ofwireless data collection signals 218 to the group of sensor units 212using wireless system 210 as shown in block form in FIG. 2. The group ofwireless data collection signals 218 causes the group of sensor units212 to send sensor data 204 in wireless response signals 220 as shown inblock form in FIG. 2. Thereafter, state machine 500 returns to idlestate 502 until event 508 occurs.

Turning now to FIG. 6, an illustration of a sensor system is depicted inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this illustrativeexample, sensor system 600 is an example of an implementation for sensorsystem 202 in FIG. 2. As depicted, sensor system 600 is configured togenerate sensor data in fuel tank 602.

In the illustrative example, sensor system 600 includes a number ofdifferent components. As depicted, sensor system 600 includes sensorcontroller 604, remote data concentrator 606, reader R₁ 608, reader R₂610, antenna 612, antenna 614, antenna 616, sensor unit 618, sensor unit620, sensor unit 622, sensor unit 624, sensor unit 626, sensor unit 628,sensor unit 630, and sensor unit 632.

In these illustrative examples, sensor unit 618, sensor unit 620, sensorunit 622, sensor unit 624, sensor unit 626, sensor unit 628, sensor unit630, and sensor unit 632 are located in fuel tank 602. These sensorunits receive energy through radio frequency signals transmitted byantenna 612, antenna 614, and antenna 616. These sensor units generatesensor data and transmit the sensor data over radio frequency signals toantenna 612, antenna 614, and antenna 616. In particular, these sensorunits may be implemented using hardware for radio frequency identifier(RFID) tags.

In these illustrative examples, antenna 612, antenna 614, and antenna616 may be located in the interior of fuel tank 602, outside of fueltank 602, or some combination thereof. The location and configuration ofantenna 612, antenna 614, and antenna 616 is selected such that theseantennas are able to transmit radio frequency signals to the sensorunits and receive radio frequency signals from the sensor units.

In this illustrative example, antenna 612 communicates with sensor unit618, sensor unit 620, and sensor unit 622 using radio frequency signals.Antenna 614 communicates with sensor unit 624, sensor unit 626, andsensor unit 628. Antenna 616 communicates with sensor unit 630 andsensor unit 632. Of course, more than one antenna may communicate withthe same sensor unit in some implementations. For example, antenna 612and antenna 614 may both communicate with sensor unit 622 in anotherillustrative example.

Reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610 are examples of hardware devices thatmay be implemented in transceiver system 300 in FIG. 3. For example,reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610 may include transceiver units such astransceiver units 306 in FIG. 3. In these illustrative examples, thesereaders may be implemented using radio frequency identifier tag readers.Reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610 are configured to transmit radiofrequency signals over antenna 612, antenna 614, and antenna 616 withinfuel tank 602. As depicted, reader R₁ 608 is connected to antenna 612and antenna 614. Reader R₂ 610 is connected to antenna 616.

As depicted, reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610 are configured to transmitradio frequency signals to provide energy to the sensor units in awireless fashion. Additionally, reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610 areconfigured to transmit radio frequency signals to cause the sensor unitsto transmit sensor data.

Remote data concentrator 606 is an example of a router in routers 308 inFIG. 3. As depicted, remote data concentrator 606 is connected to readerR₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610. In this illustrative example, remote dataconcentrator 606 also performs processing of sensor data generated bythe sensor units.

Sensor controller 604 is an example of sensor controller 208 in FIG. 2.Sensor controller 604 may process the sensor data for use in otherlocations in the aircraft. For example, the sensor data may indicate afuel level in fuel tank 602. Sensor controller 604 may identify aquantity of fuel present in fuel tank 602 from the fuel level. Thisinformation may be displayed on ground refuel panel 634. In particular,a quantity of fuel, an indication of whether refueling is needed afterthe flight of an aircraft, and other information may be displayed onground refuel panel 634. As another example, the fuel level in thesensor data, the quantity of fuel identified, or both may be sent toaircraft computer 636. Aircraft computer 636 may be, for example, anavigation computer. Aircraft computer 636 may use the sensor data todetermine a range of the aircraft.

The illustration of sensor system 600 in FIG. 6 is an example of oneimplementation of sensor system 202 in FIG. 2 and is not meant to implylimitations to the manner in which other sensor system may beimplemented. For example, one or more additional remote dataconcentrators may be present in sensor system 600 in addition to remotedata concentrator 606. In other illustrative examples, a router may beimplemented that does not perform processing of data as depicted withremote data concentrator 606. In still other illustrative examples,remote data concentrator 606 may be connected to sensor controller 604through a network not shown in this example.

As another example, other types of information may be identified in fueltank 602 in addition to the fuel level. For example, the temperature, apressure, an amount of vapor, and other information may be received inthe sensor data from the sensors. In still another illustrative example,sensors may be located in other locations in the aircraft other thanfuel tank 602. These sensors also may generate sensor data that is sentto sensor controller 604. For example, sensors may be located inside thecabin of an aircraft, in association with an engine, or in otherlocations in the different illustrative examples.

With reference now to FIG. 7, another illustration of a sensor system isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, another configuration for sensor system 600 isshown.

As depicted, reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610 are not used in sensorsystem 600 as separate components. In the illustrative example, antenna612, antenna 614, and antenna 616 are connected to remote dataconcentrator 606. The functionality for reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610is integrated in remote data concentrator 606. In other words, hardwaresuch as transceiver units and other devices used to transmit radiofrequency signals and receive radio frequency signals may be implementedwithin remote data concentrator 606. This type of implementation mayreduce the number of devices installed in an aircraft.

With reference now to FIG. 8, another illustration of a sensor system isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 8illustrates yet another illustration of sensor system 600. As depicted,radio frequency windows are formed in structures within fuel tank 602.For example, radio frequency window 800 is located in rib 802. Radiofrequency window 804 is located in rib 806. Radio frequency window 808is located in rib 810. Radio frequency window 812 is located in rib 814.

The materials used in these radio frequency windows may be any materialthat facilitates the passage of radio frequency signals through thewindows. The materials selected for these radio frequency signals may bematerials used in structures such as radomes. These materials may reducethe attenuation of radio frequency signals within fuel tank 602.

The materials may include materials selected from one of a polyurethane,polystyrene, polytetrafluoroethylene, a quartz/cyanate-ester compositematerial, a quartz/polybutadiene composite material, polyoxymethylene,nylon, a closed cell foam, a non-supported film adhesive, and othersuitable materials.

In another illustrative example, a radio frequency window may be createdusing two passive antennas that are directly connected at a bulkhead.For example, an aperture may be formed in a metal rib. One antenna maybe mounted to the forward bay with a first connector that is connectedto another connector on the other side that is attached to the secondantenna. These connectors may be, for example, a 50 ohm connector. Theeffect would be similar to having a physical aperture.

In this illustrative example, the use of radio frequency windows mayreduce the number of components needed in sensor system 600. Asdepicted, antenna 616, reader R₁ 608, and reader R₂ 610 are not used inthis configuration of sensor system 600. With this configuration,antenna 612 and antenna 614 provide a sufficient coverage fortransmitting and receiving radio frequency signals within fuel tank 602.

With reference now to FIG. 9, yet another illustration of a sensorsystem is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. FIG. 9illustrates yet another illustration of another configuration for sensorsystem 600.

In this illustrative example, antenna 900 is used in place of antenna612, antenna 614, and antenna 616. Antenna 900 is not a separatecomponent like antenna 612, antenna 614, and antenna 616. Instead,antenna 900 is integrated within another structure. In this particularexample, antenna 900 is integrated within spar 902 extending across fueltank 602.

In particular, antenna 900 takes the form of a waveguide formed withinspar 902. In the illustrative example, the waveguide may be a slottedwaveguide. The slotted waveguide may aid in the propagation of the radiofrequency signals through fuel tank 602. Additionally, when thewaveguide takes the form of a slotted waveguide, the slotted waveguidemay be formed as part of a structural component such as a stringer.

Slots in the stringer may be covered with radio frequency windows in theillustrative example. In this manner, the channel in the stringer may beisolated from fuel tank 602. Further, radio frequency signals withhigher energy levels may be propagated through the stringer with the useof radio frequency windows.

As a result, the number of components that are manufactured andinstalled in fuel tank 602 are associated with fuel tank 602. Inaddition, with the use of antenna 900, reader R₁ 608 and reader R₂ 610are not needed in this configuration for sensor system 600.

The illustrations of different configurations for sensor system 600 inFIGS. 6-9 are only meant as examples of some configurations that may beimplemented for sensor system 600. These illustrations are not meant tolimit the manner in which other illustrative embodiments may beimplemented. For example, in other illustrative embodiments, radiofrequency window 800, radio frequency window 804, radio frequency window808, and radio frequency window 812 may not be needed in theconfiguration of sensor system 600 as depicted in FIG. 9.

In still other illustrative examples, other numbers of sensor unitsother than the eight sensor units illustrated for fuel tank 602 may beused. For example, one sensor unit, fifteen sensor units, twenty sensorunits, or some other number of sensor units may be used.

As another example, sensor system 600 may be implemented in otherlocations in addition to or in place of fuel tank 602. For example,sensor system 600 also may be used within the passenger cabin of anaircraft, in association with an engine for the aircraft, and in otherlocations within the aircraft. For example, sensors may be present inthe passenger cabin to generate data about parameters such astemperature, humidity, and other suitable parameters in the passengercabin. The sensor data may be used by environment control system inaircraft 206 in FIG. 2. As another example, sensors may be present indifferent portions of the aircraft to detect other parameters such aspressure, strain, and other suitable parameters.

With reference next to FIG. 10, an illustration of a timing diagram isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this depictedexample, timing diagram 1000 illustrates timing for transmittingwireless signals and receiving wireless signals in a sensor system. Asdepicted, timing diagram 1000 illustrates the timing that may be used insensor system 600 in FIG. 6.

As depicted, X axis 1002 represents time, while Y axis 1004 representspower of wireless signals transmitted within sensor system 202 in FIG. 2and sensor system 600 in FIG. 6. In the illustrative example, line 1006represents the power in radio frequency signals transmitted by thereaders through the antennas to the sensor units in sensor system 600 inFIG. 6.

As can be seen, the power for the radio frequency transmissions in line1006 has different levels. These different levels may correspond todifferent states of operation in sensor system 600 in FIG. 6. Inparticular, sensor system 600 in FIG. 6 may implement state machine 500in FIG. 5 in the transmission of wireless signals.

As depicted, sample time 1008 represents a cycle in the collection ofsensor data. Power stage 1010 and data collection stage 1012 are periodsof time within sample time 1008.

During power stage 1010, line 1006 is at power level 1014. This powerlevel is selected such that the energy in the wireless signalstransmitted during power stage 1010 provides electrical energy tooperate the sensor units in sensor system 600. The electrical energyprovided to the sensor units may be used to perform differentoperations. For example, the operations may include at least one ofmaking measurements, storing sensor data, or other suitable types ofoperations.

In the illustrative example, the duration of power stage 1010 variesdepending on the particular sensor system and configuration ofcomponents such as antennas, sensor units, and other factors. Theduration of power stage 1010 is selected to be efficient for sensorunits to perform desired operations to generate sensor data and storedata in the illustrative example. For example, the duration of powerstage 1010 may be about 10 milliseconds when the power of the wirelesssignals is about 10 watts. In this example, the power of the wirelesssignals may be from about 1 mW to about 10 mW.

The selection of the time and power for signals may depend on theefficiency of the energy harvesting device used. Further, theseparameters may vary depending on the location of sensor units, theconfiguration of the fuel tank or other structure, and other suitablefactors.

After power stage 1010, data collection stage 1012 occurs. In datacollection stage 1012, line 1006 has power level 1016. Power level 1016is configured to cause the sensor units in sensor system 600 to sendsensor data generated by the sensor units.

In these illustrative examples, information may be encoded in thewireless transmissions not shown in this figure. For example, thewireless transmissions may encode identifiers for different sensor unitsthat cause both sensor units having the identifiers encoded to transmitsensor data.

In one illustrative example, a wireless power signal sent during powerstage 1010 is received by all of the sensor units. In this example,during data collection stage 1012, pulses 1018 in line 1006 are used tosend wireless data collections signals to the wireless sensors.

For example, pulses 1018 in time R₁ 1020 may be signals generated byreader R₁ 608 in FIG. 6. Pulses 1018 transmitted during time A_(l) 1022are transmitted by antenna 612 in this illustrative example. Pulses 1018transmitted during time A₂ 1024 are transmitted by antenna 614 in FIG.6. Pulses 1018 transmitted during time A₃ 1026 are transmitted byantenna 616 in FIG. 6 from signals generated by reader R₂ 610 in FIG. 6during time R₂ 1023.

As depicted, pulses 1018 may be directed to particular sensor unitsbased on information encoded in the wireless data collections signalsthat are transmitted. For example, pulse P₁ 1028 is directed towardsensor unit 618; pulse P₂ 1030 is directed towards sensor unit 620;pulse P₃ 1032 is directed towards sensor unit 622; pulse P₄ 1034 isdirected towards sensor unit 624; pulse P₅ 1036 is directed towardssensor unit 626; pulse P₆ 1038 is directed towards sensor unit 628;pulse P₇ 1040 is directed towards sensor unit 630; pulse P₈ 1042 isdirected towards sensor unit 632.

In this illustrative example, each pulse for a particular sensor unitmay encode an identifier for that sensor unit. That identifier indicatesthat the pulse and any other information that may be encoded in thepulse is directed to the particular sensor unit identified in the pulse.The other information may include, for example, commands, instructions,data, and other suitable types of information.

In these illustrative examples, pulses 1018 may have a duration andpower level similar to those used for reading radio frequency identifiertags. For example, a pulse may have a duration of about 10 milliseconds.The time for data collection stage 1012 is the time needed to readsensor data from all of the different sensor units in sensor system 600in this example. This time may be identified by multiplying the numberof sensor units by the pulse width for reading data from the sensorunits. The time for data collection stage 1012 also may take intoaccount other factors such as system latency.

With reference now to FIG. 11, an illustration of a block diagram of asensor unit is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.In this illustrative example, sensor unit 1100 is another example of animplementation for a sensor unit in sensor units 212 in FIG. 2.

In the illustrative example, sensor unit 1100 includes a number ofdifferent components. As depicted, sensor unit 1100 includes antennasystem 1102, electric circuit 1104, and sensor 1106.

Electric circuit 1104 is comprised of one or more different elements.Electric circuit 1104 may be implemented as an integrated circuit chipor multiple integrated circuit chips electrically connected to eachother depending on the particular implementation.

Sensor 1106 may take various forms. In this illustrative example, sensor1106 may be probe 1108. In other words, sensor 1106 may have an elongateshape such as a cylinder or some other suitable shape. In particular,probe 1108 may be capacitive probe 1110. Of course, sensor 1106 may takeother forms other than capacitive probe 1110. For example, probe 1108may be a temperature probe. In still other illustrative examples, othertypes of sensors may be used that may have other shapes forconfigurations.

Antenna system 1102 may take various forms. For example, antenna system1102 may be a group of antennas 1112. This group of antennas 1112 maytake the form of antenna array 1114.

In this illustrative example, antenna system 1102 is physicallyconnected to sensor 1106. As used herein, a first component, antennasystem 1102, “connected to” a second component, sensor 1106, means thatthe first component can be connected directly or indirectly to thesecond component. In other words, additional components may be presentbetween the first component and the second component. The firstcomponent is considered to be indirectly connected to the secondcomponent when one or more additional components are present between thetwo components. When the first component is directly connected to thesecond component, no additional components are present between the twocomponents.

As depicted, sensor 1106 may serve as a mounting structure for antennasystem 1102. In still other illustrative examples, sensor 1106 mayfunction as a ground or ground plane when sensor 1106 includes a metalmaterial.

Further, antenna system 1102 is configured to exchange radio frequencysignals in different environments. For example, the group of antennas1112 may be configured to provide a desired level of exchange of radiofrequency signals in both fuel and air. This configuration may take intoaccount a change in level of fuel in a fuel tank. For example, fuel maysometimes cover a portion or all of the group of antennas 1112 whensensor unit 1100 is used in a fuel tank.

In some illustrative examples, different antennas in the group ofantennas 1112 may be designed for different media. For example, thegroup of antennas 1112 may be a plurality of monopole antennas.

A first portion of the group of antennas 1112 may be configured toexchange radio frequency signals in the air. The second portion of thegroup of antennas 1112 may be configured to exchange wireless signals ina liquid such as fuel. The different antennas may be arranged such thatat least some of the group of antennas 1112 are able to exchange radiofrequency signals at a desired level. In these illustrative examples,the desired level for the radio frequency signals is, for example, at alevel at which energy may be derived from radio frequency signals at adesired level or a level at which sensor data may be transmitted to adestination.

In yet another illustrative example, the group of antennas 1112 mayinclude an antenna array formed on a planar substrate. This planarsubstrate may be connected to sensor 1106.

In yet another illustrative example, the group of antennas 1112 may bean antenna array formed on a flexible dielectric film. This flexibledielectric film is connected to the sensor. As a result, the antenna mayconform to the shape of the sensor.

Additionally, sensor unit 1100 also may include barrier structure 1116.Barrier structure 1116 may provide protection from the environmentaround sensor unit 1100. Barrier structure 1116 may be configured toprovide this protection to one or more components in sensor unit 1100.

For example, barrier structure 1116 may ensure that the group ofantennas 1112 is exposed to a medium that has air instead of fuel. Asanother illustrative example, barrier structure 1116 also may provideprotection for electric circuit 1104. For example, barrier structure1116 may act as a housing for electric circuit 1104.

In the illustrative example, barrier structure 1116 may encapsulate oneor more components and sensor unit 1100. Barrier structure 1116 maysubstantially prevent at least one of fuel, moisture, or other elementsfrom reaching component and sensor unit 1100.

In other words, barrier structure 1116 may have an interior that issubstantially sealed from allowing elements outside of barrier structure1116 from entering the interior of barrier structure 1116.

In some illustrative examples, the interior includes a fluid such asair. In other illustrative examples, the fluid may be another gas suchas nitrogen, helium, an inert gas, or some other suitable gas. In stillother illustrative examples, the fluid may be a liquid within theinterior of barrier structure 1116.

In other words, barrier structure 1116 may contain antennas 1112 in anenvironment that is configured for a desired level of performance forantennas 1112. For example, antennas 1112 may be maintained in a drystate by barrier structure 1116. Thus, barrier structure 1116 may beconfigured to provide a substantially dry environment for antennas 1112in antenna system 1102.

Barrier structure 1116 is comprised of material that reduces theattenuation of radio frequency signals in this illustrative example.Barrier structure 1116 may be comprised of materials similar to thoseused in radomes. In fact, in some illustrative examples, barrierstructure 1116 may be a radome.

Barrier structure 1116 may provide a layer of protection againstenvironmental effects such as electromagnetic events. In other words, ifelectromagnetic events, such as an arc, occur within electric circuit1104, barrier structure 1116 may prevent the arc from reaching otherportions of the fuel tank.

Further, the use of barrier structure 1116 as a radome for antennas 1112may keep fuel or other liquids at a selected distance from antennas1112. In this manner, dielectric loading of the antenna may be reducedor eliminated such that the efficiency of antennas 1112 may remain at adesired level.

The illustration of sensor unit 1100 in FIG. 11 is not meant to implyphysical or architectural limitations to the manner in which sensorunits may be implemented. Other sensor units may include othercomponents in addition to or in place of the ones illustrated for sensorunit 1100.

For example, one or more sensors in addition to sensor 1106 may beimplemented in sensor unit 1100. As another illustrative example, sensorunit 1100 may include connectors to connect or mount sensor unit 1100 todifferent structures in a desired location.

In still another illustrative example, a combination of a multilayerprinted wiring board (PWB) in a strip containing electrical componentsin electric circuit 1104 with a radio frequency flexible circuit forantennas 1112 may be used. This type of configuration may be wrappedaround, and bonded to, a tube in probe 1108.

Turning now to FIG. 12, an illustration of a block diagram of anelectric circuit is depicted in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. In this illustration, an example of components in electriccircuit 1104 is depicted. For example, electric circuit 1104 may includecontroller 1200, energy harvester 1202, power system 1204, radio 1206,memory 1208, and other suitable components.

As depicted, energy harvester 1202 is one or more devices configured toconvert the energy in radio frequency signals received by antenna system1102 into electrical energy. In this manner, sensor unit 1100 does notneed to have a wired connection to a power source. Additionally, energyharvester 1202 may harvest energy from other sources in addition to orin place of radio frequency signals.

Controller 1200 is configured to control operation of the differentcomponents in sensor unit 1100 and may be, for example, a processor, aprogrammable logic array, an application specific integrated circuit, orsome other suitable type of components. In some illustrative examples,radio 1206 includes a transmitter and a receiver and may be integratedas a transceiver rather than as separate components. Memory 1208 maystore information including sensor data, program code, and othersuitable types of information. Power system 1204 may provide for thestorage of electrical energy. For example, power system 1204 may have anenergy storage device such as a capacitor, battery, or some othersuitable type of storage device. Additionally, power system 1204 alsomay include circuits to regulate and accumulate energy that is stored bypower system 1204.

With reference now to FIG. 13, another illustration of a block diagramof an electric circuit is depicted in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. In this illustration, another example of components that maybe found in electric circuit 1104 is depicted. For example, electriccircuit 1104 may include radio frequency splitter 1300, energyharvesting device 1302, energy storage system 1304, radio 1306, andcontroller 1308.

As depicted, radio frequency splitter 1300 is configured to be connectedto antenna system 1102 in FIG. 11. Radio frequency splitter 1300 isconfigured to send wireless power signals to energy harvesting device1302. Radio frequency splitter 1300 is also configured to send wirelessdata collection signals to radio 1306 for processing. In thisillustrative example, the wireless data collection signal may includecommands or other information that may be used by controller 1308 inperforming measurement operations as well as other operations.

In this illustrative example, radio frequency splitter 1300 isconfigured to send a first portion of the radio frequency signal toradio 1306 and the second portion of the radio frequency signal toenergy harvesting device 1302. The portion selected may be such thatradio 1306 is able to demodulate the radio frequency signal. Forexample, the first portion may be about 20 percent and the secondportion may be about 80 percent. The actual value selected may depend onparticular components used for radio 1306 and energy harvesting device1302.

As depicted, radio 1306 may convert sensor data or other informationreceived from controller 1308 into a form for transmission over awireless response signal. In particular, a transmitter in radio 1306 maygenerate a wireless response signal that is modulated to include theinformation.

In this illustrative example, a radio frequency identifier techniquecalled “backscatter” may be implemented. With this type of technique,the need for circuit components such as low noise amplifiers, mixers,and other circuits may be reduced or eliminated within radio 1306. As aresult, the operation of radio 1306 occurs with a reduced use of powerthrough the elimination of circuit elements. As an example, radio 1306may use power that is about at least 10 times lower than other “lowpower” radios. In this manner, radio 1306 in electric circuit 1104 isdesigned to meet policies such as safety policies, while other “lowpower” radios may not meet these types of policies.

Energy harvesting device 1302 is configured to generate energy from awireless power signal received through radio frequency splitter 1300.This energy may be in the form of voltage sent to energy storage system1304.

Energy storage system 1304 may store the energy until used to operatesensor unit 1100. Energy storage system 1304 may include an energystorage device and circuits used to accumulate, regulate, and storeenergy in the energy storage device. The energy storage device may be,for example, at least one of a capacitor, a battery, or some othersuitable device.

Radio 1306 may include a transmitter and a receiver. Radio 1306 mayreceive a wireless data collection signal and identify information thatmay be encoded in the wireless data collection signal. This informationis sent to controller 1308. Additionally, radio 1306 may receiveinformation such as sensor data from controller 1308. This sensor datais encoded by radio 1306 for transmission as a wireless response signal.

Controller 1308 is connected to radio 1306, energy storage system 1304,and sensor 1106 in FIG. 11. In this illustrative example, controller1308 is configured to control the operation of sensor unit 1100. Forexample, controller 1308 is configured to receive signals from sensor1106 and generate sensor data from the signals. Controller 1308 isconfigured to send and receive information to a remote location usingradio 1306.

Additionally, controller 1308 may also perform other operations such ascontrolling a sampling rate for signals received from sensor 1106,evaluate energy generated by energy harvesting device 1302 from radiofrequency signals received by antennas 1112, send information aboutenergy generated and other information as diagnostic information to aremote location, and other suitable operations.

As depicted, controller 1308 is also configured to send energy in theform of voltage to sensor 1106. Controller 1308 also sends the voltageto radio 1306.

As depicted, controller 1308 may receive an analog signal from sensor1106 in FIG. 11. This analog signal may be a square wave or some othersuitable type of signal. Controller 1308 converts this measurement intosensor data. For example, the analog signal may be converted into aheight of fuel in a fuel tank.

The illustration of sensor system 202 as shown in block form in FIG. 2and the different components in FIGS. 2-9 and FIGS. 11-13 are not meantto imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which anillustrative embodiment may be implemented. Other components in additionto or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Some components maybe unnecessary. Also, the blocks are presented to illustrate somefunctional components. One or more of these blocks may be combined,divided, or combined and divided into different blocks when implementedin an illustrative embodiment.

Although the illustrative examples are described with respect to anaircraft, an illustrative embodiment may be applied to other types ofplatforms. The platform may be, for example, a mobile platform, astationary platform, a land-based structure, an aquatic-based structure,and a space-based structure. More specifically, the platform, may be asurface ship, a tank, a personnel carrier, a train, a spacecraft, aspace station, a satellite, a submarine, an automobile, a power plant, ahouse, a manufacturing facility, a building, a refinery, a chemicalcontainment unit, fuel tank, passenger cabin, a wing, and other suitableplatforms. In other words, sensor system 202 may be placed in variouslocations in these different platforms.

As yet another illustrative example, other wireless signals other thanwireless power signals 216, wireless data collection signals 218, andwireless response signals 220 as shown in block form in FIG. 2 may bepresent. For example, other types of wireless signals may encodeinformation such as commands, data, or other information to configurehow sensor units 212 in FIG. 2 operate.

As another illustrative example, energy harvesting device 1302 mayharvest energy from other sources other than radio frequency signals.For example, energy harvesting device 1302 may include, or may bephysically associated with, components to harvest energy from at leastone of a temperature gradient, vibrations, movement, or other suitablesources of energy in the environment around sensor unit 1100. Forexample, a thermal electric generator may be used to drive energy from atemperature gradient. As another example, an electric crystal fiber maybe used to derive energy from vibrations.

Also in this illustrative example, sensor unit 1100 and the componentsin FIGS. 11-13 may be configured to meet a policy. In particular,components such as at least one of sensor unit 1100, antenna system1102, energy harvesting device 1302, controller 1308, or othercomponents are configured to meet a safety policy.

With reference now to FIG. 14, an illustration of a sensor unit isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, sensor unit 1400 is an example of a physicalimplementation for sensor unit 1100 shown in block form in FIG. 11.

As depicted, sensor unit 1400 includes capacitive probe 1402 and barrierstructure 1404. Other components such as an antenna and an electriccircuit are present within barrier structure 1404, but not shown in thisview. As depicted, barrier structure 1404 takes the form of a housing inthis particular example. The housing may be comprised of variousmaterials such as plastic, polycarbonate, and other materials suitablefor use in a fuel tank. Additionally, the selection of the material forbarrier structure 1404 is one that reduces the attenuation of radiofrequency signals.

Barrier structure 1404 may isolate the components within barrierstructure 1404 from the environment around sensor unit 1400. Forexample, if sensor unit 1400 is partially or fully immersed in fuel,barrier structure 1404 may prevent fuel from entering into the interiorwhere the different components are located.

Turning now to FIG. 15, another illustration of a sensor unit isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In this example,barrier structure 1404 in FIG. 14 has been removed. In this view, planarcircuit board 1500 is shown connected to capacitive probe 1402 byconnector 1502. Connector 1502 may be comprised of various materials,such as, for example, plastic, polycarbonate, aluminum, or any othersuitable material for use in a fuel tank.

As depicted, electric circuit 1504 is formed from different integratedcircuits and trace lines on planar circuit board 1500. Additionally,antenna 1506 is located on planar circuit board 1500 in this example.

With reference now to FIG. 16, another illustration of a sensor unit isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, sensor unit 1600 is an example of animplementation for sensor unit 1100 shown in block form in FIG. 11.

In this illustrative example, sensor unit 1600 includes capacitive probe1602 and barrier structure 1604. Barrier structure 1604 is connected tocapacitive probe 1602.

As can be seen, barrier structure 1604 has a cylindrical shape aroundsurface 1606 of capacitive probe 1602. In other words, barrier structure1604 conforms to surface 1606 of capacitive probe 1602. Additionally,barrier structure 1604 may be comprised of a material selected for usein a fuel tank and reduces attenuation of radio frequency signals.

With reference now to FIG. 17, yet another illustration of a sensor unitis depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisexample, sensor unit 1600 is shown without barrier structure 1604. Ascan be seen in this illustrative example, flexible dielectric film 1700has a shape that conforms to surface 1606 of capacitive probe 1602. Inthis example, flexible dielectric film 1700 is connected to surface 1606of capacitive probe 1602.

Antenna array 1702 is formed on flexible dielectric film 1700. Antennaarray 1702 may be a flexible radio frequency circuit material withcopper lines or other metal lines. These materials may be laminated toform a multilayer flexible antenna element. One or more of thesemultilayer flexible antenna elements may be used. As depicted, pluralityof multilayer flexible antenna elements form antenna array 1702.

Additionally, electric circuit 1704 is also connected to flexibledielectric film 1700. Electric circuit 1704 takes the form of anintegrated circuit chip in this illustrative example. An integratedcircuit chip may have a shape configured to conform to surface 1606 ofcapacitive probe 1602. In other illustrative examples, the circuit maybe formed on a flexible material.

With reference now to FIG. 18, an illustration of a sensor unit isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, sensor unit 1800 is an example of animplementation for sensor unit 1100 shown in block form in FIG. 11.

In this illustrative example, sensor unit 1800 comprises capacitiveprobe 1802, barrier structure 1804, and antenna array 1806. Barrierstructure 1804 is connected to capacitive probe 1802. Barrier structure1804 may contain components such as an electric circuit within theinterior of barrier structure 1804.

In this illustrative example, antenna array 1806 is not covered orlocated within barrier structure 1804. A group of antennas withinantenna array 1806 are configured to send and receive radio frequencysignals in different mediums.

For example, antenna 1808 in antenna array 1806 may be configured tosend and receive radio frequency signals in air. Antenna 1810 in antennaarray 1806 may be configured to send and receive radio frequency signalsin fuel.

Thus, if fuel level 1812 is present, then antenna 1808 may send andreceive radio frequency signals at a desired level while antenna 1810may not send and receive radio frequency signals at a desired level. Iffuel level 1814 is present, antenna 1808 may not send and receive radiofrequency signals at a desired level while antenna 1810 sends andreceives radio frequency signals at a desired level.

In other words, each antenna in antenna array 1806 may be configured tosend and receive radio frequency signals in a selected medium such asair or fuel. As a result, as the fuel level changes, at least a portionof the group of antennas in antenna array 1806 may send and receiveradio frequency signals at a desired level, even though the fuel levelmay change.

With reference now to FIG. 19, an illustration of a sensor unit isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, sensor unit 1900 is an example of animplementation for sensor unit 1100 shown in block form in FIG. 11.

In this illustrative example, sensor unit 1900 comprises capacitiveprobe 1902, barrier structure 1904, and antenna array 1906. Barrierstructure 1904 is connected to capacitive probe 1902. Barrier structure1904 may contain components such as an electric circuit within theinterior of barrier structure 1904.

In this example, the group of antennas in antenna array 1906 is notshown because the group of antennas in antenna array 1906 is covered bybarrier structure 1904. The group of antennas in antenna array 1906 maybe configured to send and receive radio frequency signals in air.Barrier structure 1904 is configured to prevent fuel from contacting thegroup of antennas in antenna array 1906. In the illustrative example,barrier structure 1904 may reduce dielectric loading of the antenna.Dielectric loading on the antenna may cause a shift in resonantfrequency, which reduces the performance of the antenna.

In this illustrative example, barrier structure 1904 may be comprised ofhousing 1908, element 1910, element 1912, element 1914, element 1916,element 1918, element 1920, element 1922, element 1924, element 1926,element 1928, element 1928, element 1930, and element 1932. Theseelements covering the group of antennas may be radomes in thisillustrative example.

The materials used in barrier structure 1904 may be all of the same typeof material or different types of materials. For example, housing 1908and the different elements may all be comprised of a material suitablefor use in a fuel tank. The material selected for the different elementsmay be ones that reduce attenuation of radio frequency signals while thematerial for housing 1908 does not have such a requirement.

The different components shown in FIGS. 1 and 14-19 may be combined withcomponents in FIGS. 2-9 and 11-13, used with components in FIGS. 2-9 and11-13, or a combination of the two. Additionally, some of the componentsin FIGS. 1 and 14-19 may be illustrative examples of how componentsshown in block form in FIGS. 2-9 and 11-13 can be implemented asphysical structures.

Turning now to FIG. 20, an illustration of a flowchart of a process forgenerating sensor data is depicted in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. The process illustrated in FIG. 20 may be implemented insensor system 202 in FIG. 2.

The process begins by sending a number of wireless power signals to agroup of sensor units (operation 2000). After the number of wirelesspower signals have been sent to the group of sensor units, a number ofwireless data collection signals are sent to the group of sensor units(operation 2002).

Next, sensor data in wireless response signals is received from thegroup of sensor units (operation 2004). The process terminatesthereafter.

In the illustrative examples, these operations may be repeated anynumber of times to obtain sensor data from the group of sensor units.These operations send wireless signals at different power levels. Thesepower levels may be similar to those illustrated in timing diagram 1000in FIG. 10.

With reference now to FIG. 21, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for sending wireless data collection signals is depicted inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The operations illustratedin FIG. 21 are examples of operations that may be used to implementoperation 2002 in FIG. 20.

The process begins by identifying a group of sensor units (operation2100). The sensor units are ones for which data collection of sensordata is desired. These sensors may be identified from a data structuresuch as a database, a link, a list, a table, or some other suitable typeof data structure. The information in the data structure may be, forexample, identifiers for the group of sensor units.

The process then selects an unprocessed sensor unit from the group ofsensor units identified (operation 2102). The process then sends awireless data collection signal with the identifier for the selectedsensor unit encoded in the wireless data collection signal (operation2104). A determination is made as to whether an additional unprocessedsensor unit is present in the group of sensor units identified(operation 2106).

If an additional unprocessed sensor unit is present, the process returnsto operation 2102. Otherwise, the process terminates.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodimentsillustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of somepossible implementations of apparatuses and methods in an illustrativeembodiment. In this regard, each block in the flowcharts or blockdiagrams may represent a module, a segment, a function, and/or a portionof an operation or step. For example, one or more of the blocks may beimplemented as program code, in hardware, or a combination of theprogram code and hardware. When implemented in hardware, the hardwaremay, for example, take the form of integrated circuits that aremanufactured or configured to perform one or more operations in theflowcharts or block diagrams. When implemented as a combination ofprogram code and hardware, the implementation may take the form offirmware.

In some alternative implementations of an illustrative embodiment, thefunction or functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the ordernoted in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown insuccession may be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks maysometimes be performed in the reverse order, depending upon thefunctionality involved. Also, other blocks may be added in addition tothe illustrated blocks in a flowchart or block diagram.

For example, in the flowchart in FIG. 21, the process may include anoperation to wait for a wireless response signal to be received from thesensor unit before proceeding to select another sensor unit forprocessing. As another example, the wireless data collection signal maybe a broadcast signal and may not include identifiers for the wirelesssensor units. In this implementation, the wireless sensor units may alltransmit sensor data when receiving this broadcast signal.

Turning now to FIG. 22, an illustration of a block diagram of a dataprocessing system is depicted in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. Data processing system 2200 may be used to implement sensorcontroller 208 in FIG. 2. In this illustrative example, data processingsystem 2200 includes communications framework 2202, which providescommunications between processor unit 2204, memory 2206, persistentstorage 2208, communications unit 2210, input/output (I/O) unit 2212,and display 2214. In this example, communication framework may take theform of a bus system.

Processor unit 2204 serves to execute instructions for software that maybe loaded into memory 2206. Processor unit 2204 may be a number ofprocessors, a multi-processor core, or some other type of processor,depending on the particular implementation.

Memory 2206 and persistent storage 2208 are examples of storage devices2216. A storage device is any piece of hardware that is capable ofstoring information, such as, for example, without limitation, data,program code in functional form, and/or other suitable informationeither on a temporary basis and/or a permanent basis. Storage devices2216 may also be referred to as computer readable storage devices inthese illustrative examples. Memory 2206, in these examples, may be, forexample, a random access memory or any other suitable volatile ornon-volatile storage device. Persistent storage 2208 may take variousforms, depending on the particular implementation.

For example, persistent storage 2208 may contain one or more componentsor devices. For example, persistent storage 2208 may be a hard drive, aflash memory, a rewritable optical disk, a rewritable magnetic tape, orsome combination of the above. The media used by persistent storage 2208also may be removable. For example, a removable hard drive may be usedfor persistent storage 2208.

Communications unit 2210, in these illustrative examples, provides forcommunications with other data processing systems or devices. In theseillustrative examples, communications unit 2210 is a network interfacecard.

Input/output unit 2212 allows for input and output of data with otherdevices that may be connected to data processing system 2200. Forexample, input/output unit 2212 may provide a connection for user inputthrough a keyboard, a mouse, and/or some other suitable input device.Further, input/output unit 2212 may send output to a printer. Display2214 provides a mechanism to display information to a user.

Instructions for the operating system, applications, and/or programs maybe located in storage devices 2216, which are in communication withprocessor unit 2204 through communications framework 2202. The processesof the different embodiments may be performed by processor unit 2204using computer-implemented instructions, which may be located in amemory, such as memory 2206.

These instructions are referred to as program code, computer usableprogram code, or computer readable program code that may be read andexecuted by a processor in processor unit 2204. The program code in thedifferent embodiments may be embodied on different physical or computerreadable storage media, such as memory 2206 or persistent storage 2208.

Program code 2218 is located in a functional form on computer readablemedia 2220 that is selectively removable and may be loaded onto ortransferred to data processing system 2200 for execution by processorunit 2204. Program code 2218 and computer readable media 2220 formcomputer program product 2222 in these illustrative examples. In oneexample, computer readable media 2220 may be computer readable storagemedia 2224 or computer readable signal media 2226.

In these illustrative examples, computer readable storage media 2224 isa physical or tangible storage device used to store program code 2218rather than a medium that propagates or transmits program code 2218.

Alternatively, program code 2218 may be transferred to data processingsystem 2200 using computer readable signal media 2226. Computer readablesignal media 2226 may be, for example, a propagated data signalcontaining program code 2218. For example, computer readable signalmedia 2226 may be an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, and/orany other suitable type of signal. These signals may be transmitted overcommunications links, such as wireless communications links, opticalfiber cable, coaxial cable, a wire, and/or any other suitable type ofcommunications link.

The different components illustrated for data processing system 2200 arenot meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent embodiments may be implemented. The different illustrativeembodiments may be implemented in a data processing system includingcomponents in addition to and/or in place of those illustrated for dataprocessing system 2200. Other components shown in FIG. 22 can be variedfrom the illustrative examples shown. The different embodiments may beimplemented using any hardware device or system capable of runningprogram code 2218.

Illustrative embodiments of the disclosure may be described in thecontext of aircraft manufacturing and service method 2300 as shown inFIG. 23 and aircraft 2400 as shown in FIG. 24. Turning first to FIG. 23,an illustration of an aircraft manufacturing and service method isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Duringpre-production, aircraft manufacturing and service method 2300 mayinclude specification and design 2302 of aircraft 2400 in FIG. 24 andmaterial procurement 2304.

During production, component and subassembly manufacturing 2306 andsystem integration 2308 of aircraft 2400 in FIG. 24 takes place.Thereafter, aircraft 2400 in FIG. 24 may go through certification anddelivery 2310 in order to be placed in service 2312. While in service2312 by a customer, aircraft 2400 in FIG. 24 is scheduled for routinemaintenance and service 2314, which may include modification,reconfiguration, refurbishment, and other maintenance or service.

Each of the processes of aircraft manufacturing and service method 2300may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party,and/or an operator. In these examples, the operator may be a customer.For the purposes of this description, a system integrator may include,without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers andmajor-system subcontractors; a third party may include, withoutlimitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and anoperator may be an airline, a leasing company, a military entity, aservice organization, and so on.

With reference now to FIG. 24, an illustration of an aircraft isdepicted in which an illustrative embodiment may be implemented. In thisexample, aircraft 2400 is produced by aircraft manufacturing and servicemethod 2300 in FIG. 23 and may include airframe 2402 with plurality ofsystems 2404 and interior 2406. Examples of systems 2404 include one ormore of propulsion system 2408, electrical system 2410, hydraulic system2412, and environmental system 2414. Any number of other systems may beincluded. Although an aerospace example is shown, different illustrativeembodiments may be applied to other industries, such as the automotiveindustry.

Apparatuses and methods embodied herein may be employed during at leastone of the stages of aircraft manufacturing and service method 2300 inFIG. 23. For example, the different components in sensor system 202 maybe manufactured and produced during component and subassemblymanufacturing 2306 in FIG. 23.

As yet another example, one or more apparatus embodiments, methodembodiments, or a combination thereof may be utilized during systemintegration 2308, in service 2312, during maintenance and service 2314,as well as other stages in FIG. 23.

For example, sensor system 202 may be used to generate sensor data whileaircraft 2400 is in service 2312. As another illustrative example,sensor system 202 may be implemented in aircraft 2400 during maintenanceand service 2314. For example, sensor system 202 may be added toaircraft 2400 during refurbishment, upgrades, and other operations thatmay be performed. In some illustrative examples, some components insensor system 202 may already be present while others may be added whensensor system 202 is implemented during maintenance and service 2314.

The use of a number of the different illustrative embodiments maysubstantially expedite the assembly of and/or reduce the cost ofaircraft 2400. In the illustrative examples, a reduction in time andcost may occur through the reduced need for wires, harnesses, and othercomponents used in transmitting signals over a wired medium. Further,the number of openings formed for wires and the inspection andmaintenance and inspection of seals for those openings also may bereduced when using sensor system 202 in aircraft 2400.

Thus, the illustrative embodiments provide a method and apparatus forproviding sensor data in a manner that provides information desired foroperating an aircraft. The illustrative embodiments provide an abilityto reduce the number of components used in a sensor system. As a result,the weight, cost, and time needed to install a sensor system may bereduced using one or more illustrative embodiments.

Thus, one or more illustrative embodiments may be implemented to reducethe need for wires in an aircraft. In the illustrative examples, thearchitecture for sensor system 202 may be used in areas in which therouting of wires may be more difficult than desired as well as in areasin which the use of wires is undesirable. With an illustrativeembodiment, the formation of goals for wires and the entry of wires intoareas such as a fuel tank may be reduced or eliminated.

As a result, issues with respect to the routing wires, the standoffwires and other components from structures to reduce effects, such asarcing or discharge, from undesired electoral magnetic events, such aslightning or static electricity may be reduced or unnecessary.

The description of the different illustrative embodiments has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description, and is notintended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the formdisclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art. Further, different illustrativeembodiments may provide different features as compared to otherillustrative embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected arechosen and described in order to best explain the principles of theembodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinaryskill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodimentswith various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated.

1. An apparatus comprising: a sensor controller configured to send anumber of wireless power signals to a group of sensor units; send anumber of wireless data collection signals to the group of sensor unitsafter the number of wireless power signals have been sent to the groupof sensor units; and receive sensor data in a number of wirelessresponse signals from the group of sensor units; and the group of sensorunits, wherein a sensor unit of the group of sensor units comprises anantenna array having a first antenna configured to send and receiveradio frequency signals in a first medium at a desired level and asecond antenna configure to send and receive radio frequency signals ina second medium at the desired level, and wherein the desired level is alevel at which a desired amount of energy may be derived from the radiofrequency signals or a level at which sensor data may be transmitted toa destination.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: awireless system configured to transmit the number of wireless powersignals and the number of wireless data collection signals to the groupof sensor units under a control of the sensor controller and receive thesensor data in the number of wireless response signals sent to the groupof sensor units.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the wirelesssystem comprises: a group of antennas; and a transceiver systemconfigured to send the number of wireless power signals and the numberof wireless data collection signals to the group of sensor units usingthe group of antennas and receive the sensor data received from thegroup of sensor units using the group of antennas.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 3, wherein the transceiver system comprises: a group oftransceiver units connected to the group of antennas.
 5. The apparatusof claim 4, wherein the wireless system further comprises: a routersystem connected to the group of transceiver units and configured toreceive the sensor data from the group of transceiver units and send thesensor data to the sensor controller.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5,wherein the router system is further configured to process the sensordata prior to sending the sensor data to the sensor controller.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 1, wherein the number of wireless power signals isconfigured to wake up the group of sensor units; provide power to thegroup of sensor units; cause the group of sensor units to makemeasurements; and store the measurements as the sensor data.
 8. Theapparatus of claim 7, wherein the number of wireless data collectionsignals is configured to cause the group of sensor units to send thesensor data in wireless response signals.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the number of wireless power signals is selected from one of asingle wireless power signal and a plurality of sequential wirelesspower signals.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a sensor unit inthe group of sensor units comprises: a capacitive sensor physicallyconnected to the antenna array, wherein the antenna array is configuredto send and receive wireless signals; an energy harvesting deviceconfigured to derive energy from the wireless signals received; and acontroller configured to control the capacitive sensor to make ameasurement, save the measurement as the sensor data, and send thesensor data in the wireless signals. 11-14. (canceled)
 15. A sensorsystem comprising: a capacitive sensor; an antenna system physicallyconnected to the sensor, wherein the antenna system is configured tosend and receive wireless signals; an energy harvesting deviceconfigured to derive energy from the wireless signals received; and acontroller configured to control the sensor to make a measurement, savethe measurement as sensor data, and send the sensor data in the wirelesssignals.
 16. The sensor system of claim 15, wherein the capacitivesensor, the antenna system, the energy harvesting device, and thecontroller form a sensor unit. 17-19. (canceled)
 20. The sensor systemof claim 15, wherein the antenna system comprises at least one of aplurality of monopole antennas connected to the capacitive sensor, anantenna array formed on a planar substrate connected to the capacitivesensor, or an antenna array on a flexible dielectric film connected tothe capacitive sensor.
 21. (canceled)
 22. The sensor system of claim 15,wherein the capacitive sensor, the antenna system, the energy harvestingdevice, and the controller form a sensor unit and further comprising: awireless system configured to send a number of wireless power signalsand a number of wireless data collection signals to the sensor unit andreceive the sensor data in a number of wireless response signals sentfrom the sensor unit; and a sensor controller configured to cause thewireless system to send the number of wireless power signals to thesensor unit; cause the wireless system to send the number of wirelessdata collection signals to the sensor unit after the number of wirelesspower signals have been sent to the sensor unit; and receive the sensordata transmitted wirelessly in the number of wireless response signalsfrom the wireless system.
 23. The sensor system of claim 15, wherein thecapacitive sensor, the antenna system, the energy harvesting device, andthe controller are configured to meet a safety policy.
 24. The sensorsystem of claim 15, wherein the energy harvesting device is configuredto generate energy from at least one of a temperature gradient,vibrations, or movement. 25-33. (canceled)
 34. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the first medium is a fluid and the second medium is air. 35.The sensor system of claim 16, wherein the capacitive sensor is a firstsensor and wherein the sensor unit further comprises a second sensor.36. The sensor system of claim 15 further comprising: a barrierstructure configured to enclose at least one of the antenna system, theenergy harvesting device, or the controller.
 37. The sensor system ofclaim 36, wherein the barrier structure is configured to provide asubstantially dry environment for the antenna system, wherein thebarrier structure comprises a housing and a number of elements extendingoff of the housing, wherein each element of the number of element coversa single antenna of the antenna system.